Gary C. Comer Geochemistry Building

“I am proud to be a part of this project. The research that takes place in this facility will
lay the groundwork for even greater understanding of how we live on and with this planet.”
--Gary C. Comer

With the support and vision of our benefactor, Gary C. Comer, and the Comer Science and Education Foundation,
Lamont-Doherty constructed a new geochemistry research facility, a critical step toward accelerating efforts to understand Earth dynamics and predict our planet’s changing climate.

One of the largest donations ever to Lamont-Doherty, the gift allows Observatory scientists to address pressing questions in Earth science. Geochemists use advanced chemical and isotope analyses to investigate every aspect of our planet, including the circulation of the oceans and atmosphere, changing ecosystems, and solid earth processes.

To date, the Gary C. Comer Geochemistry Building has received the

2009 Lab of the Year prize, cosponsored by R&D magazine and the
Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association

2009 Sustainable Design Award, cosponsored by the Environmental
Protection Agency and the Boston Society of Architects

Award for Excellence in Architecture in a New Building, from the American
Institute of Architects and the Society for College and University Planning.

Jurors noted the building’s energy efficiency, its use of environmentally sound materials, and its harmonious fit with the surrounding forested hillside landscape. The building was designed by Payette Associates, Inc.

In addition to the generous lead gift, a $2 million gift from Columbia University Trustee Gerry Lenfest and a $1 million anonymous gift have helped finance the facility.

If you would like information about how to support the Comer Building's ultra clean lab, or about naming opportunities in the building, please contact Barbara Charbonnet at 845.365.8585 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting845.365.8585end_of_the_skype_highlighting or bcharb@ldeo.columbia.edu. To make a gift online, please click here.